Perth, the capital of the largest state in Australia, is a favourite of many visitors to this part of the continent. It has a mediterranean climate and a population of around a third of the major eastern cities which contributes to a feeling of space and openness.
The city has it all. Pristine Indian Ocean beaches, immaculate parklands, forested areas, wineries in the Blue Hills of the Darling Range to the east and to cap it all, Perth sits on the foreshores of the beautiful Swan River.
Perth city centre appears to sit on the shores of a lake as the Swan River expands forming Perth Water which is almost 1 mile (1.5km) at its widest section. This glorious expanse of water is dotted with ferries, cruise boats, wind surfers and yachts and is the perfect backdrop for the city on its north shore.
River cruises can be taken around Perth Water to Fremantle, South Perth and even the Swan Valley wine region. Cruises also depart from Perth to Rottnest Island which is a small sandy island 20km off the coast in the Indian Ocean. The banks of the Swan River have excellent bike and footpaths and bike hire is available.
A 'Free Transit Zone' operates in the compact city centre and allows free travel using the CAT System (Central Area Transit ) buses or trains. Replicas of the original maroon coloured Perth trams offer another enjoyable way to see the sights of the city - a fare is payable since this is not included in the CAT system. The Perth Tram Company offers a 'Tourist Trifecta' which includes a sightseeing tour of Perth, a Swan River cruise and a tour of Fremantle - by harbour and by Tram.
The sunny warm climate makes Perth an alfresco city peppered with street and water side cafes and eateries. The city has more restaurants per head of population than any other city in Australia and is renown for its seafood and innovative 'Fusion' cooking style which combines foods and techniques from several cultures.
Perth city centre is a pleasing mix of the newer high rise glass and steel towers and charming colonial period buildings. The Central Business District is connected to the shopping areas by under and over ground walkways allowing walking unimpeded by cars. Hay and Murray Streets are at the centre of the shopping district which is comprised of elegant arcades and malls. Of note is London Court, a quaint precinct with an Elizabethan street facade and a replica of Big Ben at its Hay Street entrance.
A visit to the Darling Range to the east of Perth is a worthwhile excursion. As well as a great view of the city you will find wineries, scenic drives, cascading rivers, rolling bushlands, farm arts and crafts, orchards, quaint cottages, tea rooms, lakes and wildflowers in spring. You may even stumble across an olde English pub (the Chidlow Inn Tavern)
The area does have several wineries set in picturesque valleys and several offer tastings from their cellar doors, tours, restaurants and accommodation.
Perth has some ideally placed and extensive parklands. Kings Park is a 400 hectare reserve a few minutes to the west of the city and because of its elevation, offers some of the best views of the city and Perth Water. This vast park can be toured on foot, by bike and also by 'tram'.
The park has several statues and memorials, art galleries, botanical gardens, restaurants, tea rooms and cafes. In the summer the park
holds outdoor events such as theatre productions, movies symphonies, rock/pop
and classical concerts.Perth Hotel Accommodation
Perth is a popular international tourist destination and its west coast location often makes it the first or last port of call in Australia. A selection of Perth accommodation is shown below. For a full list please visit our Perth Hotels page.
Approx Driving Distances / Time
38Hrs From Melbourne (3500Km)
30Hrs From Adelaide (2800Km) )
Driving through the Outback and remote or isolated areas of Australia is not recommended for the un prepared or in experienced.
Perth Airport, which has both international and domestic terminals, is around 15km (9 miles) north east of the city, along the Great Eastern Highway. The journey should take approximately 30 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Taxis, hire cars and airport shuttle buses are available.
As a guide, the flying time from Sydney, on the east coast, to Perth, on the west coast, (not including travel time to and from airports and adequate time prior to check in etc ) is around 5 hours.
Max Average Temperature
Deg C/ Deg F
Winter(June-Aug):18/ 65
Spring(Sep-Nov):22 / 72
Summer(Dec-Feb):31 / 87
Autumn(Mar-May):25 / 77
Average Monthly Rainfall - mm
Winter(June-Aug): 164
Spring(Sep-Nov): 51
Summer(Dec-Feb): 11
Autumn(Mar-May): 62
Copyright auinfo PTY LTD. All information is provided in good faith and responsibility will not be accepted for errors, inaccuracies or omissions.
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